A police Chief Constable has been suspended to answer a case for gross misconduct.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne, of Cheshire Police, has been relieved of his duties following an investigation into allegations made against him in 2016.

The investigation was carried out by an external police force, but the matter will now be referred to an independently-chaired gross misconduct hearing.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane confirmed Deputy Chief Constable Janette McCormick will take on the role of Acting Chief Constable.

He said: "Following allegations made in late 2016 against Chief Constable Simon Byrne and following advice from the IPCC, a local investigation conducted by an external police force has been underway in accordance with the statutory police conduct regime.

"Following receipt of the investigation report, and having carefully considered the evidence, I have determined that there is a case to answer for gross misconduct with regards to Authority, Respect and Courtesy and Discreditable Conduct.